Still Up to my Eyeballs

So yesterday was a bust, in so many ways. They never did the procedure due to the pregnancy, they didn't want to cause any issues. Which was okay with me, I had to wonder if it was safe to begin with.
INSTEAD I spent over two hours sitting in the office because my blood pressure was high. It wouldn't go down. I had to lie on my left side and be checked every 15 mins. Let me tell you my arms were aching after that. And seriously after the stress any one's blood pressure would be high. When I got home I felt deathly sick. Thankfully that is gone this morning.
So I'm on a restricted diet, no salt. Ha! Like that's going to be easy. Today I go for a bunch of blood work and an ultrasound. This was not how I planned my vacation. But better safe than sorry.
No edits were accomplished yesterday, but hopefully before I leave I'll get something done. Only two days to finish before the DH takes me away for the weekend. I'd like to have a stress free anniversary weekend! :)

Happy Tuesday!

Manic Monday

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday. I must admit I'm happy it's over. It was crazy last week getting everything done. We were so unorganized this year it wasn't funny. Somehow it snuck up on us. lol We managed to get everyone done that needed to be by Christmas. Over the weekend we finished up family we'll see at the end of the week.
We also went to see Sherlock Holmes this weekend. It was a good movie and I was thankful for 2+ hours of peace and quiet!

I have a busy week ahead. I'm still on vacation, but under a few deadlines. Some self-imposed, some by editors. I finished writing Naughty Cupid this morning. Today after a small procedure I'll be in bed editing and hope to have it off to Noble Romance later in the day.
Tomorrow I'll start my revisions for Research Required. I'd like to have that back to my editor by the 1st. There are a few books I'd like to catch up on too.
We head off to NY to visit family on Friday. I'm looking forward to seeing the friends I missed at Thanksgiving. Oh and throw in our Anniversary on New Year's Eve...

Posts will likely be sporadic this week. Stay warm and Happy Monday!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

This is me on Christmas morning. I've been this way since I knew what Christmas and Santa were. My parents would sleep and I'd sneak out to the tree, stack all the presents in neat little piles for the three of us and wait. Like a good little child I'd check out all the cool stuff Santa brought, peek in my stocking, and anticipate what was wrapped.
As a new parent some twenty-two years ago I couldn't wait for my son to wake me up on Christmas morning all excited because Santa arrived while he was sleeping. That never happened! While most parents beg their kids for another hour - I always had to wake mine up. Not that they weren't excited about the holiday, they're just heavy sleepers. I'm hoping the grandbaby and new baby are different! LOL Either way I'll be up at the crack of dawn waiting!
This year I'm blessed with a house full of children again. Hope this holiday season finds you healthy, happy and full of many blessings!

Spread Thin

I feel like I'm being pulled in every direction! I have so much shopping to finish, luckily after today I'm on vacation. I told the DH the weekend is all about him and Christmas shopping. We need time away from the filled house!

I received a rejection for now with Research Required. It needs some revising. It seems I forgot to make my hero likable halfway through. She's right. I did forget to turn him around and make him lovable. I had the hot sex down! LOL

I'll be working on that Monday. I have too much other stuff to concentrate on now. I'm still finishing the last sex scene for Naughty Cupid due Jan 1.

My mom arrives Wednesday for a few a week of visiting and looking at places for her to move here.

Wishing everyone a Happy Friday and a terrific weekend!

BTW, Regina Carlysle has a new release today...check it out!

Book 4 in the High Plains Shifters series.

Blurb:
From the moment Cactus Mackey rescues Sara Farmer from outlaw wolves, he knows she belongs to him—and he’s more than ready to mess up some sheets with the sassy female. But she has secrets and wants to run. Infuriating woman! He might have to tie her to his bed but he’s not about to give up until she belongs to him, body and soul.

As danger chases her, Sara knows it’s a huge mistake to fall head over heels for the sexy lycan cowboy from Wolf Creek Ranch. A single touch from this shockingly seductive man melts her like butter under the hot Texas sun, and has her yearning for impossible things. The man is big trouble to her heart and running may no longer be an option.

Excerpt:

“Don’t let me go.”
Cactus went still at the whispered demand. The woman’s lips moved against his throat and just that simple touch had sensation rocketing through his body to settle in his cock. She’d been traumatized enough and he hated like hell that holding her this way made him hard enough to hammer nails but it couldn’t be helped. He’d been semi-erect since the moment he’d first clapped eyes on her. The instant attraction caught him off guard but then, was a man ever really prepared for the first moment he met the she-wolf who was destined to be his mate?
Probably not.
He settled his cheek against her tousled blonde curls and instinctively tightened his arm around her. Her name was Sara and he and others from the Wolf Creek Pack of Cloverfield, Texas had just saved her and her sister, along with Rayne Poteet, from a gang of rogue lycans. The sorry fucks made it their business to steal unmated she-wolves from the safety of their homes.
Except this woman, Sara, didn’t have a home.
Hell if she didn’t. Her home was with him.
“I won’t, darlin’. Not in this lifetime.”
Cactus sat in the backseat of the big duely double cab truck with his charge safely curled on his lap. He lifted his head from Sara’s hair and spoke over the roar of the engine. “How much longer until we’re home, Gabe?”
Cloverfield’s sheriff, who was driving them home, caught his eye in the rearview mirror. The big lycan was steering with one hand and holding Sara’s sister, Kate, close to his side. Cactus watched the big, gruff wolf’s hand stroke comfortingly over Kate’s body as she huddled against him. “About half an hour or so,” he murmured. “Almost there.”
Following behind them on the narrow stretch of twisted highway was a van full of the criminal lycans and their leader, Selena. Tonight full pack justice would be handed out to the lot of them. There would be little chance of escape for this bunch and the bloodthirsty half of his nature, his beast, would relish the chance to end their reign of terror.
Cactus returned his attention to the woman in his arms. Earlier, he’d lifted her up and carried her from the maze of old RVs and mobile homes where the captives had been held and settled her in the backseat of the truck. No one had questioned him but then, no one would dare. He wasn’t the kind of man who put up with interference from others. Cactus Mackey was a two-hundred-year-old lycan and old enough to handle his own affairs just fine. He settled back to look at the woman who he knew was his mate.
“How are you feeling?”
Her answering sigh almost broke his heart. She gave him a single look from eyes the color of Texas bluebonnets then closed them. Lowering her cheek to his chest, she settled her hand there too. Her fingers moved restlessly against his pecs and Cactus caught his breath. “I don’t know.”
“Don’t worry about it. We’ll get you home soon. I’ll tuck you in nice and tight and make sure you rest up.”
“Sounds nice,” she whispered. “Tell me your name.”
“Cactus. Cactus Mackey.”
Again, that little sigh. “Funny name.”
He smiled. “What’d you expect? I’m a Texan.”
Sara shifted in his lap and his cock tightened. Gods! She had to feel the damn thing prodding her sweet, nicely plump ass. His balls went hard. Fighting off the powerful urge to fuck her right here in front of the gods and everybody was suddenly the hardest challenge he’d ever faced. Literally. But Cactus wasn’t a man who took advantage of wounded creatures and Sara was wounded, for sure. Downright shocky. Whatever had possessed him to drag her into his lap that way? Damn it! She’d been hurt, traumatized and emotionally battered. He’d felt the trembling of her body and needed to comfort her so he didn’t think twice about pulling her into his lap. She’d needed to know he represented safety and that she and her sister would be cared for in this town he called home.
“I’m Sara Farmer.”
Cactus tightened his hold and breathed in her scent. It wrapped around him like a benediction. Mine. Mine. Mine. The words whispered through his mind and he wondered if she felt it too.
“You banged up a bit?”
“I was but I heal pretty quickly for being unmated.”
Among their kind unmated females were slower to heal injuries than a full-fledged lycan. Until she consummated things with her mate and finally released her wolf, it would be that way. He didn’t respond but glanced out the window of the truck and watched the miles of desert flash by as they motored their way deep into west Texas. Some might not find the country pretty but to him, the flat prairie with its buttes and plateaus was heaven. His kind had fought the Comanche and Apache Indians generations ago claiming the land as theirs. They’d built their homes, ranches and businesses with sweat and hard work and had won Texas independence from Mexico. Cactus had been one of many of Cloverfield’s lycans to fight side by side with others to build Texas into a force in this burgeoning country.
“She asleep?” The rumbling question came from Gabe and Cactus glanced down at his charge.
“Yeah.”
“So is Kate. Poor little thing.” The comment seemed strange coming from the burly lycan who wore an air of suppressed violence around him like an aura. “Figure we should take them to the ranch.”
Cactus swallowed the denial that rushed to his lips. He wanted Sara with him but knew Gabe was right about that. Quinn, their lupa and wife of their alpha, Joe McKinnon would take care of them for the time being until it was decided what was to be done with the kidnapped sisters. They needed the care that only a woman could offer. Gods knew, he didn’t know shit about that stuff. Both Sara and Kate had said they hadn’t been assaulted but maybe they didn’t want to speak the truth to a bunch of rough-looking men.
His belly knotted.
If any of those rogues had laid a finger on Sara there would be hell to pay. No doubt about it.
“So what do you think, Cactus?” Gabe prodded, catching his gaze once again in the rearview mirror.
Cactus nodded. “Yep, I reckon that would be best.”
Later he spotted the familiar landscape that included lines of fence that days before he’d been repairing along with Dusty, another Wolf Creek cowboy. The spread was huge, dominating most of the area around Cloverfield. The only ranch that came close belonged to Rayne’s dad, Angus Poteet, and these days he farmed windmills more than he raised cattle.
Almost home.
Huge limestone pillars rose up in the distance signaling their approach to the ranch. They sat on opposite sides of the entry road, like sentinels. Gabe took a left through the gates and satisfaction sank tender claws into his heart as he thought of his modest brick house where a nice hot shower and fresh coffee were waiting. He glanced down at the still sleeping Sara and wondered what she’d think of the home he’d built. Hell, who was he kidding? His decorating skills were sadly lacking. In fact, the last woman who’d been in his place admitted with a sniff that he decorated like a man.
Sara shifted on his lap and Cactus studied her features in repose. Her face was a neat, pretty little oval, her lips were full and her nose was small with an obstinate little tilt at the very end. If this had been a better time, he might’ve kissed her there or traced the line of barely visible freckles that marched across the bridge. He already knew she was soft and curvy since most of those lush curves were pressed intimately against his own body.
He wanted inside this woman so much he could practically taste it.
The truck pulled to a stop in front of the ranch house, a huge two-story limestone structure that had been built years before the battle of Texas Independence, and saw Quinn McKinnon and their housekeeper, Maria, standing on the porch. The pack’s lupa was a beautiful woman, tall, blonde and curvy enough to make a wolf’s mouth water. She was also intelligent and funny. Joe adored her and so did the pack. As she marched across the front yard toward them, he noted the look of worry on her face.
Just then, Sara blinked up at him.
“We’re home,” he said.
Little lines formed between her brows as she frowned. “Home?”
“My home. Yours too, I reckon.”
Her hands went to her face for a quick rub before she pushed her tangled hair back. She glanced out the window and Cactus felt the fine tremor that swept her body. Tenderly, he pulled the blanket closer around her and smiled. “It’ll be okay. Quinn has been waiting for you.”
“Quinn?”
“Your lupa.”
More alert, she looked frantically toward the front seat “Katie? Katie, are you okay?”
Silence fell. Finally Gabe spoke up. He’d stepped from the cab of the truck and was reaching in for Sara’s sister. “She’ll be okay. Don’t you worry. She’s just in shock.” He lifted her blanket-covered body and tucked her against him. “Figure she’ll talk when she’s ready.”
Cactus got out of the truck prepared to lift Sara into his arms but she drew back and looked at him. “I can walk.”
“Honey, you’re barefoot. I don’t want you to hurt yourself.”
“I’m fine.”
“No, you’re not.” He wasn’t about to stand there arguing so he lifted her up, despite her protests. Quinn and Maria began to fuss as they followed him and Gabe up the steps and into the house. The instant they were inside, Sara wiggled to get free. Reluctantly, Cactus set her on her dirty, bare feet grabbing her shoulder to steady her as she staggered a bit. When she’d regained her footing she raced across the room and went to her knees before her sister, whom Gabe had settled on a big leather sofa.
Sara reached for her hands and stared into her face. Cactus noted that despite a slight variation in the shades of blonde in their hair, the sisters were almost identical. For the first time in awhile, he felt a flash of alarm at the vacant expression on Katie’s face. Gabe stood nearby, a muscle working in his strong jaw.
“Kati-did, talk to me,” Sara encouraged. “You’ve been so strong. Don’t leave me now. Come on.”
Still Katie didn’t speak. She looked out on the world with a vacant stare and Cactus watched in horror as tears fell from Sara’s eyes to roll slowly down her cheeks. “It has all been too much, hasn’t it?” she whispered. “You’ve been so strong. I’ve been so proud of you. We handled the problem with Dad, didn’t we? We got away. You and me. We did it together. This other thing was nothing after that.” Sara choked and drew her sister into her arms. Turning her face into Katie’s hair, she whispered a savage command. “Stop it! Don’t go away! I mean it, Katalin!”
Questions coalesced in Cactus’ mind. What the fuck was going on? The urge to protect Sara and her sister held him in its grip and, for the first time in over a century, he felt utterly helpless. He hated it.
He stepped forward wanting to do something, wanting to discover what the hell she meant by her little speech but Quinn caught his gaze and shook her head. His lupa went to the pair and she gave Gabe a look.
“Cactus!” Gabe’s voice broke the spell.
Understanding, he gently drew Sara to her feet and pulled her against him as Gabe lifted Kate and followed Quinn and Maria up the stairs.
When they were alone, Sara stepped away and turned to face him. Waves of grief rolled from her to him. A tsunami of pain flashed through his system along with an unmistakable electrical charge that sizzled along his flesh.
“Gods!” She choked on the word as her hands went over her mouth. Tears pooled in her beautiful eyes and he couldn’t stand it another fucking minute. He went to her and cupped her face to press kisses on her forehead, her cheeks. Her salty tears dampened his lips and needing to comfort more than he needed his next breath, he settled his mouth on hers. She tasted of tragedy and passion and loss and Cactus drank each emotion, each fear as if he could draw them into himself and save her from feeling them. The blanket had fallen from her shoulders when she’d gone to comfort her sister and now she wore only an oversized tee shirt. Both women had been stolen from their beds so there was nothing unusual in that.
Cactus sent his tongue deep into her mouth, stroking the walls of her cheeks as he tasted her slowly. Drinking her gasping breath, he drew back to nip her bottom lip with his teeth. “You’re safe,” he whispered, shocked at the gruff sound of his own voice. “I won’t let anything happen to either of you. Trust me.”
“I do. I shouldn’t but I do. What is happening between us, Cactus?”
Bending, he pressed his mouth to the slender column of her throat as his hands took a journey over her back. Finally he answered her, his lips moving on her tender flesh. “You’re mine.”
“I am. At least, I think so. Gods! I shouldn’t be feeling this way after all that’s happened.”

And the Winner Is...

Cindy Spencer Pape! Please contact me at: amberskyze at aol dot com to collect your prize!

Sorry I'm a day late posting the winner. Life has been crazy! My daughter got a job, so grandma is babysitting on top of working the day job. I'm cleaning up last minute things at work because I start my two week vacation tomorrow! YAY! Time to get caught up on reading, editing, shopping and all the Christmas stuff I've pushed aside.
Yesterday my younger daughter L and I baked cookies for the DH's Christmas party at work today. We may have eaten more than he took to work. Oh well. LOL
Having a house full again takes a lot of adjusting.
Today my son and I will go pick up the toy box for T and donate clothes to the Salvation Army. More baking is in order too. I swear one of these days I'll get out to buy something for the DH.
And I can't forget Survivor is on tonight. I'm looking forward to seeing what Russell will do.

Happy Thursday!

New Release Day - Body Shots

Today I'm celebrating my seventh release of the year by giving away a copy of my latest release - Body Shots. Find a blurb and excerpt below. And if you're so inclined you can purchase a copy today at: http://www.jasminejade.com/

Blurb:
Got Tequila?
Sierra does and Reed isn’t afraid to use it. He’s determined to do shots on every inch of her skin, but Sierra has insecurities preventing him from exploring intimate areas. Her insecurities won't stop her from lavishing his body with the heady liquor.
Ten years ago an accident tore Sierra Allen and Reed Walker apart. Now a chance encounter has them burning for each other. A bottle of liquor and a pool table has this duo ready to quench their thirsts with one night of Body Shots.
Will one night be enough to fan the flames of desire?

Excerpt:
Reed Walker leaned his massive frame against the wall. His leg bent, his boot-clad foot tapped against the wall to the rhythm of the bass drum. He stuffed his hands in his pockets, as his eyes gazed upon the singer crooning the soft rock ballad. She was gorgeous by every standard of the word. Long flowing black hair, dark mysterious eyes, her arms sleeved in tattoos. Dressed only in black leather pants and a matching leather bra, her rock-hard stomach revealed she worshiped the gym but Reed wasn’t here for the singer. She wasn’t his type any longer. Another time, another place maybe. Not tonight. Tonight, he was here for the owner of the bar.
Looking to make some extra cash doing something they loved, Reed and his fellow band mates decided to reunite after a ten year hiatus. Reed having always been the businessman of the group took on the task of going around to different bars and clubs to see if they were interested in adding his band Foul Play to the line up.
When he walked into Crimson Nights he thought he was walking into a dream. Never in his wildest imagination had he thought he’d come face to face with the only true love of his life—Sierra Allen.
The look on her face when he walked up to the bar and asked to speak to the owner was one of shock. Like seeing a ghost. And that’s how he felt. Oh, she’d cut off most of her long red hair but she couldn’t deny the scar on her right cheek. It had faded some over the years and she tried covering it with her hand most of the time they spoke but he knew it was her. She told him her name was Laura but Reed knew better. Those haunting green eyes couldn’t be mistaken.
He went along with her charade, though it killed him deep inside. She had run away from him after the car accident without so much as an explanation. The weeks he spent by her side, holding her while she cried over what she felt was a deformed face. The painful recovery from the shards of glass that cut her, when the windshield shattered. He stood by her side, loving her, wishing he could take away her pain. Wishing it was him who suffered instead of her, only to have her up and vanish when she was released from the hospital.
Now she was pretending she didn’t know him. It didn’t make sense. He’d let her go a long time ago but this time he wasn’t going to leave without finding out why. It was the least she could do. She owed him an explanation.
She shocked him when she agreed to let his band play. He fully expected a flat-out “no”. Why would she want his band playing there if she was hiding her identity? Was it a ploy to make him believe she was this Laura she pretended to be? Or was she feeling the connection too? If it was to prove her charade, she was sadly mistaken. Reed wasn’t stupid enough to be fooled by a haircut or name change.
Reed would wait until the night was done and the bar empty before he confronted her but he would and when he did, Sierra had some explaining to do.

I've Been Tagged

I've been tagged by good friend and fellow author Regina Carlysle. Find the answers to my questions below. Who am I tagging??? Fran Lee, Molly Daniels and Katalina Leon - have fun ladies.

1. What’s the last thing you wrote? What’s the first thing you wrote that you still have?

The last thing I wrote was Pretend with Me, the first book in my new series. The first thing I wrote was poetry as a teen.

2. Write poetry?

In high school. Boy was I pathetic! LOL

3. Angsty poetry?

Totally.

4. Favorite genre of writing?

Romance. Contemporary, BDSM and Chick Lit.

5. Most annoying character you’ve ever created?

None I can think of.

6. Best plot you’ve ever created?

Play with Me, Book Three of the Shea Manor series. The heroine went through lots of ups and downs, with a great sense of humor. Oh and we can’t forget the HOT sex.

7. Coolest plot twist you’ve ever created?

Research Required…just submitted to my editor

8. How often do you get writer’s block?

A few times a week! LOL

9. Write fan fiction?

Can’t say I have.

10. Do you type or write by hand?

I type but have sticky notes all over the place.

11. Do you save everything you write?

Absolutely!

12. Do you ever go back to an idea after you’ve abandoned it?

Most of the time. It’s rare that I don’t.

13. What’s your favorite thing you’ve ever written?

Shea Manor series.

14. What’s everyone else’s favorite story that you’ve written?

If any readers ever tell me, I’ll let you know! Biggest seller to date is Mistletoe Studs.

15. Ever written romance or angsty teen drama?

I’ve written a few teen dramas. Nothing published, as of yet. Romance, of course. I can’t imagine writing anything else.

16. What’s your favorite setting for your characters?

Upstate New York

17. How many writing projects are you working on right now?

Three. Under deadline for a Valentine’s Day short. Book Two of the Shea Manor series and a new cougar.

18. Have you ever won an award for your writing?

Not yet, but there’s always hope for the future. :)

19. What are your five favorite words?

Bitch. Shit. Fuck. Sweet. Awesome.

20. What character have you created that is most like yourself?

There’s a little bit of me in all my characters.

21. Where do you get ideas for your characters?

Music, Television and past experiences.

22. Do you ever write based on your dreams?

No. Most of my dreams are nightmares.

23. Do you favor happy endings?

Nothing else!

24. Are you concerned with spelling and grammar as you write?

No, that’s what editing is for. LOL

25. Does music help you write?

Not anymore. I used to only write to music, now it distracts me. I need total silence.

26. Quote something you’ve written. Whatever pops into your head.

“I’ll bet that tongue is outlawed in most states.” Bailey Johnston, Research Required.

12 Days of Christmas at Noble Romance

Noble Romance Publishing is pleased to present:
The 12 Days of Christmas Sale!

Day One -- December 13, 2009 -- Receive 30% off all M/M, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transsexual books at Noble Romance Publishing.
**Usepromo code BRJFNM
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Day Five -- December 17, 2009 -- Receive 30% off all Paranormal books at Noble Romance Publishing.
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Day Six -- December 18, 2009 -- Receive 30% off all BDSM/Ds books at Noble Romance Publishing.
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Day Seven -- December 19, 2009 -- Receive 30% off all Vampire and Werewolf books at Noble Romance Publishing.
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Day Ten -- December 22, 2009 -- Receive 30% off all Mystery/Suspense books at Noble Romance Publishing.
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Day Eleven -- December 23, 2009 -- Receive 30% off all Shape-shifter books at Noble Romance Publishing.
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Day Twelve -- December 24, 2009 -- Receive 30% off all Interracial books at Noble Romance Publishing.
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Please note: Sub-genres and themes listed are defined using the links on the left side of the Noble Romance Publishing home page at www.nobleromance.com. Some books may fall within more than one category, so if you miss a day, you may have more than one opportunity to buy the book of your choice.

**Must be a member of Noble Romance Publishing's newsletter mailing list in order to receive your discount. If you are not already a member, sign up now at www.nobleromance.com.

Thank you . . . and Happy Holidays!

I Did It - Finally

I submitted Research Required to my editor. I feel like this story has been sitting on my desk forever. It has been months. The good news was my editor said she'd get back to me "very" soon, definitely before the normal "eight" weeks. I'm hoping for an answer before the end of the year. It would certainly be a nice way to end 2009.

Today the temperatures are frigid, so I'll spend the day doing Christmas cards, wrapping and finishing the decorating.

Tomorrow I'll start editing book one in the Shea Manor series and writing up the proposal. Not sure where this series will land, but I'm sure it will find a good home.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

The Giving Continues

I'm blogging over at Seven Sexy Scribes today - http://sevensexyscribes.blogspot.com/2009/12/deck-halls.html?zx=15652d11468a69f6
and I'm still in a giving mood. Stop by for your change to win a copy of Heat Waves.

Anniversary Contest Winner

Susan L is the winner of my anniversary contest. Please contact me: amberskyze@aol.com with your email address to collect your prize.

Happy Anniversary to ME!

It's hard to believe that a year ago I was sitting in my sunroom watching television and the snow falling outside, when an email popped into my inbox. It was from Aspen Mountain Press. It was around eight pm and I had had a long day. I remember thinking "Great another rejection to end the day". With trepidation I opened the email, but was totally surprised to find a contract!

The rest of the evening was a whirlwind. I was contacted an hour later by my new editor who wanted to get working on the book ASAP. It was only 19 days til Christmas and they wanted to get the story out for the holidays.

It's funny, that first book was the one that needed the least editing. I still remember thinking "Wow, this whole process is a piece of cake". I've since learned it's not!

Today I'm sharing a tidbit from Mistletoe Studs, the story that started it all for me. With the holidays just around the corner, this story will warm you up on a cold winter's night!

Oh and for fun let's have a contest. I'll give one lucky commenter a copy of Mistletoe Studs in celebration of my ONE year anniversary!

Blurb:

Meg Trainor has one wish for Christmas every year: Two men who will fulfill all her fantasies. Santa's in a giving mood this year. Brothers and co-owners of Turquoise Toys, Brad and Shane Griffin will give her a Christmas she'll never forget.

Excerpt:

Meg couldn’t believe her eyes. These were not the toys she had imagined. She thought he was talking about children’s toys. These were not intended for children. These were adult toys in every sense of the word. There were floggers, paddles, butt plugs, ball gags, straps with dildos attached and handcuffs—all Turquoise, explaining the name. Meg wasn’t naive about the BDSM world. When she realized her desire to submit she wanted to know the who, what, where and why. She read everything she could about the subject. She knew enough about it to understand.
She’d even bought a few toys to experiment with. Like the ping pong paddle she’d purchased when she was curious to know what it felt like to be spanked. It wasn’t something she did regularly but when she was in the mood for a good orgasm she’d slap her cheeks a few times before using her favorite vibrator. She never had dated a man who was actually part of that world.
Brad was gay so he wouldn’t be offering. What a shame because she could see them having fun together!
Could he be carrying a bagful of goodies? Maybe Santa was going to be extra special to her this year.
Please Santa I’ve been a good girl all year long. Please tell me you sent Brad with something extra special for my stocking this year.
Halfway though the job, Meg decided it was time to go back to her stranger. He’d been out there long enough. By now, he knew she was aware of his secret.
Turning she ran smack into his broad chest again. “We really need to stop meeting like this.” Clearing her throat, she took a step back only to come against the copier. “I was just coming out to see you.”
He stepped closer, closing the small gap between them. “How are you doing?” His voice dripped with desire.
“Fantastic. Your copies are just about done.”
Damn she wished he’d step back. He was much too close. He turned her on.
“Are you sure?” He traced his finger along her cheek.
She gulped, her body overheating.
He bent closer, taking her lips. He kissed her slowly. She melted against him; her arms snaked around his neck. He touched her breast, causing a moan to escape her lips. His bulge brushed against her. He wanted her.
While he kissed her, his fingers unzipped the back of her dress then unsnapped her bra. He pushed the garments down around her waist, exposing her breasts.
His mouth covered her nipple, sucking until it puckered. God his mouth felt good. How long had it been since a man had his mouth on her? Too long. Lisa was right; she needed to get laid, but not by Kenny.
When Brad moved to the other breast she thought for sure she was going to crumble to the floor. Her hands gripped the edges of the copier to steady herself.
“I’m going to fuck you Meg, right now.

Interview and Contest

http://lovesbooksandmore.blogspot.com I'm being interviewed over at Dawn's Reading Nook today. Stop by for your chance to win a free copy of my latest release Heat Waves!

Queen of Avoidance

When it comes to editing a story I'll do just about anything ELSE. Like yesterday. I planned to edit a story that I should have completed in October. Instead, I wrapped Christmas gifts, cleaned, slept, you name it. What I didn't do was edit.
Today I set out to edit. Opened the folder with the story and immediately showered and went grocery shopping. Came home put everything away and my son woke up. Yay! I grabbed him and had him climb into the attic to get the Christmas decorations. Found everything I was looking for, except boxes to wrap clothes. This set me off in search of those boxes I just knew I had somewhere. I finally located them. Okay, time to edit.
I did sit down and edited all but the last chapter. Hopefully tonight after dinner I can finish and send it off to my editor. I'm still hoping for those last 2 contracts before the end of the year. But I have to submit "something" to get a contract. Funny how that works.
I'm also have to finish writing a short for a January 1st deadline. I'm about 3k away.

Tomorrow I have a new release from Aspen Mountain Press - Heat Waves! I'll post all the info tomorrow.
Time to cook dinner!

Getting Started on Christmas

Today I'm wrapping gifts. I bought a ton of stuff for the grand baby T and I'm wrapping her stuff. Once the toy box arrives I'll fill it with the gifts to put under the tree - that I haven't put up yet! I'm hoping this weekend, but I have my local chapter's meeting and my MIL's b-day party.
The DH has to go into the office, so that will give me time to wrap a few things I've picked up for him too.
I need to get the DH to bring the decorations down from the attic so I can find those darn Christmas cards I bought last year. Time to get going on them too. December is always filled with so much to do.
I have the music cranked, ready to go. Maybe I'll grab a cup of coffee and rock out. Oh and I have tons of editing to do thanks to Nano. While I didn't reach the 50k mark I did manage 42,090.

If you haven't signed up for my newsletter, I'm giving away 3 ebooks and a gift card this month. But you have to be a member to win! Why not sign up today.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/authoramberskyze

Happy Hump Day!

They Got Me...URGH!!!

I’ve been pirated. I guess I should be happy it took nearly a year, but I'm not. It happened over the weekend. Thanks to the wonderful Google alerts I learned Mistletoe Studs and Splashing Good Time were stolen. Over the last year my heart has gone out to all my friends who had to experience this feeling of dread. As a writer I know how much of their blood, sweat and tears go into writing a book. To have it stolen by these f*cking a$$holes is just frustrating. Now it's my turn to experience it firsthand.
On a lighter note the DH and I enjoyed six days off. It was wonderful visiting with family and friends in NY. My mother and her desire to brag about her published daughter told my eighty-three year old grandfather about my books. His SO decided to Google me and although my mother had warned her it was racy, they were appalled. So much so my grandfather wanted to know when was the last time I read the Bible. Guess I know what I’ll be getting for Christmas! LOL
On our trip back we got a call informing us that my FIL was rushed to the hospital. They weren’t sure what was wrong with him. it’s not easy driving three hours worrying about a loved one. They were worried it could be a heart attack, stroke or his MS. Turns out it was only a kidney stone. I know I shouldn’t say “only” because I’m sure when he passes it he’ll know what any woman who has delivered a baby feels like. But it could’ve been worse.
Spent a great day with the granddaughter Saturday. Sunday we decorated the front yard. The people who live across the street hate when we decorate. They think we go overboard. I’ll have to post a pic soon. It’s really not that much. Yesterday we got to see a movie – 2012. I enjoyed it, but that’s all I’m going to say about it. :)
I can’t believe it’s December and Nano is over. While I didn’t reach my 50k goal I’m pleased with what I accomplished. I barely did any writing while away this time. Oh well.
Back to work today! Hope everyone has a wonderful Tuesday.

Home for the Holiday

This time of the year, I always reflect on the things I’m grateful for. This year is no different. Had anyone told me five years ago that I’d be remarried, living three hours away from my family and expecting a child I’d have laughed in their face.
When I left my abusive ex, I swore off relationships. Don’t get me wrong I wasn’t going to be celibate at the young age of 30, but I wasn’t going to live with another man either. I had it planned out perfectly. I’d have a lover or friend with benefits. Someone who lived in his own place and me in mine. I wouldn’t have the headaches of dealing with someone else (besides my children). Children were definitely out of the question. I had three – more than enough in my mind. I had them young and it was time to enjoy my life.
Not to sound like a bitch, but I broke up with a guy ten years my junior because I felt he was going to want more children in the future and I wasn’t going to be the one to give them to him. I also ended a few relationships because the guy wanted me to uproot my children and move twenty minutes from my home. Boy is doesn’t seem so far now! LOL
That all changed when I met my husband. I threw caution to the wind and moved three hours away from my family – for the virtually unknown. I had no friends in RI. I did manage to land a job before moving here, but that’s it. I uprooted my children to a strange new environment, leaving all their friends behind. It took a lot of adjusting and there were struggles along the way. My health took a turn for the worse due to stress. I spent five weeks in the hospital and they thought I was going to die, but they didn’t know me. I’d been through so much in my life I wasn’t going to let a disease like Crohn’s take my life. Shit, my ex could have killed me a few times.
Today as I sit here thinking back and I’m thankful we’re all healthy and happy. I couldn’t imagine my life any differently.
The DH and I are getting ready to leave for NY shortly. We’re spending the holiday with my family. That means three days of visiting. Not that I mind. I’ll spend some time with my dad. We’ll have dinner at my aunt’s with all my cousins and my mom. In the three days we’re there I have to squeeze in time to see a couple of my friends too.
It’s nice because a group of us usually do lunch on Wednesday. When I left NY five years ago I hadn’t realized just how hard it would be to get back home and see family and friends. It seems the only time I get back is for holidays or if it’s something special for my goddaughter and Mother’s Day.
That’s why this trip at Thanksgiving is that much more special. I’m thankful for the friends still in my life. The ones who didn’t abandon me because I moved one hundred seventy miles away. Some did, but I realize they weren’t true friends.
And lastly I’m thankful for all my online friends and fellow authors, who made achieving my dream of being a published writer that much better. I feel like the luckiest person alive.
Today I want to wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving!

Off Kilter

My daughter and her family arrived in GA safely.
My son came home last night. It seems things just aren't working out with the gf. So I had to give up my writing space so he could sleep in his old room. I felt a little dejected this morning as I stood in the kitchen wondering where I'd write. Mind you it was four in the morning. As I looked at the kitchen table I knew I couldn't spend two hours sitting in a hard chair. I decided on the sunroom. I fired up the heaters, grabbed a cup of coffee and climbed into a recliner.
The words didn't flow as easily as they normally do. I was distracted by the outside noises. Finally I was able to block them out and found a rhythm. Alas, I reached my word count and then some.
In the process I had to write a blog for tomorrow because I'm headed out of town.
Today's the day we find out what we're having. Part of me doesn't want to know, but the realistic part of me knows I have to. You just can't buy neutral things like you could twenty years ago. Everything is either pink or blue.

Nano Total for today - 3171

Stop back later when I fill in the blank. It's a........

Reaching for that Perfect 10

Somewhere along the line this year got behind me. I can't believe we're in the last week of November. I'm not too sure about making my goal of 10 contracts by year's end. While it's still obtainable, it's unlikely. I've been busting my butt writing this month and I will have at least three books to submit before New Year's.
I realized that I do have two submissions out that I'd forgotten about so if I do hear about them or I should say if they're accepted that would be my 10. Still, I'm not counting on anything. Everyone is busy with the holidays.
I'm moving along nicely with book one in the Lady Shea's Manor series. Paige and Jed are taking unexpected turns. This book will be longer than I expected, but that's okay. Book three was targeted for 20k and I hit 26k by the time I finished.

I had a very relaxing weekend. After working 55 hrs at my day job I needed it. I took T, the grand daughter out shopping with me yesterday. It was so much fun watching her eyes light up at all the Christmas decorations and crowds of people. She talked(or babbled) up a storm. By the time I dropped her off to mom and dad she was thoroughly exhausted. This helped because they were getting ready to hop in the car for a 15 hr drive to GA. I'm still waiting for a call letting me know they arrived safely. Kids! They just don't understand how we worry so much. Yes, I did try to call them, but their phones are off. Maybe they stopped to sleep.

Time for me to do laundry for my trip out of town!

Nano count for today - 2943
Total so far - 34889

Must Sleep

I worked my normal nine hour day yesterday and then had to work again from 8pm-4:30am. I was able to catch a few catnaps during that time, but not much. One reason was a terrible migraine I'm still suffering with. It just won't go away. I'm currently on the couch with both my work and personal laptop trying to get some writing done. I'm 3400 words behind my nano total and would like to catch up.
We leave for NY on Wednesday to visit my family for the holidays. I'll get a lot of writing done in the hotel, I always do. That's when my stories for the chicken soup for the soul come to me too. Every year I've written one or two and every year I sell them. Hey the extra $200 a story helps. Can't beat the money for a 1k story and 30mins of my time.
Tonight the family will come together to celebrate my son's girlfriends 25th birthday. Her family seems to have neglected to remember this milestone for their daughter so it's up to us to make her feel special. While it'll only be pizza and cake, it goes a long way with her.
Tomorrow I look forward to sleeping late. No work, no appointments, nothing!

Hope everyone has a terrific weekend!

And the Winner Is...

Winner of a holiday goodie envelope is MOLLY DANIELS. Please contact me at rainedelight AT yahoo DOT com within the next Seven Days and claim your prize.Thanks for coming by guys.Raine D.

Breaking Up is Hard to Do

This is a repost from my blog at http://sevensexyscribes.blogspot.com on Tuesday! I've tweaked it a bit, but if you read it Tuesday, go ahead and skip it! :)

There comes a time in every writer’s life when they must say good-bye to an editor. Usually it’s when the editor has decided to move on to something new. This past weekend I was approached by two writer’s at different stages of their careers that wanted to know if they should break up with their editor and/or agent.
The first writer is currently under a four book contract with a large NY publishing house. Her agent seems to be getting ready to retire. While said agent hasn’t confirmed the retirement all signs point in that direction. This writer is in a quandary because she knows there is so much that could be done to increase her sales, but her agent just isn’t doing her job. She doesn’t know if she should start shopping for a new agent or wait it out. The agent has rights to the four books. Only two are published at this point.
The way I see it she’s losing sales. Her blood, sweat, and tears are not getting the perks she should see from her agent. Another friend and I suggested she ask the agent point blank her plans for retirement and if she should start looking for another agent. It’s only fair that the agent give her a timeline. If the agent doesn’t give her any information, maybe it is time to part ways. I’d like to know what you think. If only I had an agent and a four book contract deal with a NY Publisher I could answer this issue for her! LOL

The other is a writing duo. They are working on their second ebook and their second editor. This editor is a writer’s nightmare. She is telling them what words to use or should I say, demanding they use "her" words, "her" dialogue and "her" descriptions. She's basically made them rewrite the entire story to make it her own. Now when they were offered the contract, the publisher stated there would be minimal changes needed on their part.
When does an editor go too far? When is it time for the author to step up and say, “Hey I’m not making these changes.” I'm all about learning and personal growth as a writer. Believe me I've a lot to learn still, but if the story is becoming the editors and the writer is losing her voice, I tend to feel it's not a good match.
Personally, I didn’t get good vibes from this situation from the beginning. They were offered a contract in May, received cover art in June and then heard nothing from the publisher for months. Their emails went unanswered. Then one day the publisher reappeared and said they now have an editor for the book. Things only progressed downhill from there.
I advised them to consider opting out of their contract when the publisher went MIA, but because they are new to the business they didn’t want to rock any boats. I understand that, because I’m still new myself. But I’m sorry at what cost is publication worth it?
Edits are one thing, but re-writing an entire story to fit the editor’s needs doesn’t bode well with me. Seriously, at this point is it still my story or the editors?
I’d be interested in your thoughts on this subject.

Welcome Guest Author Raine Delight

Today I'm excited to have guest author Raine Delight. Her Devon Falls series is very tasty, so if you haven't tried her books run over to Aspen Mountain Press and grab a copy NOW! :) http://www.aspenmountainpress.com/

Raine is interviewing two of her characters today and she's giving away a Wolfie gift bag, with a holiday CD, candies and other fabulous goodies to one lucky commenter. So, let's get right to it, shall we!

Raine’s Muse interviews Jaxon Sinclair and Alicia Stevens.

Raine’s Muse settles in his easy chair and sips from a mug of coffee. Tapping his foot, he waits for the the ladies of Devon Falls to come for their interview. He looks at the clock and before he could grumble about tardiness, a knock on his door makes him smile.

Standing up, he goes over and opens the door to the three ladies who smile as they walk into the den.

“Welcome ladies. I hope you didn’t have any trouble finding the place.” Muse says as he takes jackets and puts them away in the closet.

“Hey Muse,” Jax says as she sits on the love seat, “How’s it hanging?”

Laughing softly, Alicia smiles as she sits down on the leather seats, “Wow, muse, you really got some nice furniture this time around. Raine has been very good to you, hasn’t she?” A sly smile crosses her lips as she settles in for the interview.

Muse blushes a little, “Well...Um…it seems she wanted to reward me for getting Jax and Rod’s story done on time and I got some lovely leather furniture.” Clears his throat, “Shall we get started, Ladies?”

The murmuring consent had muse settle in his chair and as he raised his coffee cup, he grimaced at the cold coffee as it hit his lips. Muttering a blech, he picks up a recorder and turns it on.

Thank you for sitting down with me to answer some questions. – Muse

Alicia answers, “It is our pleasure Muse. We wouldn’t be here without you and frankly we really like talking with you, no matter what Damien and Rod had to say after their interview with you.” A smile teases her lips as she glances at Jaxon and Alicia, who are giggling softly.

Q: Alicia, you own the Dew Drop Bakery/Coffee shop. How has business been?

Alicia sits back and laughs, “I love my business and even though it is hard work each day, I think it fills a niche here in Devon Falls. We have our loyal customers who come in every day and then the visitors who come into town are always amazed to see something so “City-like” in such a small town.”

Jaxon agrees, “Yeah, those city folk seem so amazed that Devon Falls is not as backwards as they may think.” Grinning at Alicia, “Besides, once they taste Alicia’s cooking, they moan and groan like they died and went to heaven.”

Muse nods and smiles as Alicia tries not to blush, though her eyes sparkle at the compliments.

Q: Jax, how does it feel to have the local lothario, Rodrick Dracon, interested in you?

“Gee thanks Muse. I was in a good mood before you had to mention that man.” Grumbling and trying not to leave, Jax looks at muse and sighs, “Do you know how hard it is to resist that man? I swear he devises new tricks to get me interested. What does it take a swift kick in the pants to let him know I am not interested in him?”

Alicia hoots in laughter, “Who are you trying to convince: us or yourself? Frankly, it is about time you got together with him. Those sparks you both been showering us with are blazing hot, Jax. Besides he has one nice ass, don’t you think?” Alicia wiggles her eyebrows and smirks as Jax tries to not smack her cousin.

Muse laughs at Jax’s disgruntled expression, “Yep, you two are perfect for each other. I think this is my best pairing to date so far.”

Jax leans forward and glares at Alicia and muse, “If it was up to the two of you, I would be Rod’s sex toy and that is it. I want something more and if he thinks a wolf mating brand is the one thing that binds him to me, he has another thing coming.” Muttering about clueless cousins, annoying muses and other dire things, Muse moves along to the next question.

Q: Alicia, how does it feel to be with Damien again? Have you forgiven him for leaving you?

Alicia sighs and miles weakly, “Forgiveness is a work in progress. I can’t forget he left me and had lots of women,” as Jax mutters “Gorgeous models who look like twigs”, glares at Jax and continues, “But we are communicating differently now as well. We talk, laugh and basically work through our problems without the pain of the past to define what our future may be.”

Muse nods and gets up for some water. “Would you like something, ladies? I have water, pop and cold coffee, which I don’t recommend.” After a brief walk to the refrigerator, he hands Alicia and Jax some water as he sits back down.

Q: Both of you are dating the Dracon brothers who are powerful shifters. How do you feel about that and what was your first thought when you saw them shift into their forms?

Alicia lights up and smiles broadly, “Damien is gorgeous dragon and I can’t help but glide my hands around his scales. He looks so pretty and everything.”

Jax bursts out laughing and snickers, “Did you just call Damien a pretty dragon?”

“Yes so what. He is beautiful in dragon form.” Alicia says defensively.

Jax leans back and giggles, “I am trying to picture a “pretty” dragon that doesn’t want to eat you for dinner.”

Alicia snaps at Jax, “Well, you are dating a wolf shifter. What about you, how did you feel seeing him change?”

Jax slowly stops giggling and a sad look crosses her face, “Rod hasn’t shown me his wolf yet since we are still trying to deal with the whole, “You are my mate” thing that is between us. I am sure he is beautiful as well. I just haven’t seen his other form yet.” Shrugging, Jax takes a sip of water and glances out the window as Alicia looks stricken.

“Ok next question since you both look sad” muse says.

Q: What attracted you to your mates, ladies?

Jax sits up and glares at muse, “Mate? I haven’t decided if Rod is my mate so stop right there. I don’t need no two bit shifter telling me I am his anything and frankly, why can’t I decide if he is what I want?”

Muse looks at Jax calmly, “Because Jaxon, you both are perfect for each other and if I wanted you two together, I damn well was going to find a way to do so. So get over it. Besides all the sexual tension you two threw at me was giving me hives.”

Laughter erupts as Alicia looks at Jaxon and muse glaring at each other and wipes her eyes, “Jax give it up. You and Rod are perfect for each other and you have to admit he is one sexy man. So how does he look without his clothes?” Looking curious, Alicia draws close to the edge of the chair and looks expectantly at Jax.Sputtering, Jax says, “You want me to discuss my sex life with you both? Are you insane?” Shaking her head back and forth, “Nope not going to happen.”
Alicia laughs and nods to muse, “Yep she has it bad if she is denying it so much.”

“Damien is a man who is wild and untamable. He was always my prince in shining armor and frankly, this second chance is a godsend because we both grew up and still love one another.” Alicia answers with a dreamy smile on her face.

Muse looks at Jaxon, “And you Jax…what attracts you to Rod?”

Jaxon swallows and looks to the floor, “He is sweet when he wants to be and he is nice to look at.” Looks up at the other two, “What, you want me to get all schmaltzy and romantic. Nope, not going to happen.”

Sighing, Muse looks at Jax and mutters about obstinate females.

Ok last question for you both.

Q: Can you tell me what Jenna’s wedding is shaping up to be like?

Alicia and Jax look at each other and laugh hysterically. Muse looks at them quizzically as they wipe the tears from their eyes and as they giggle say, “Ask Jenna, I am sure she is dying to tell you what she wants for a wedding.”

“Yeah, it seems Marc’s mother has definite plans that do not match what Marc and Jenna want, so expect some serious fireworks there, especially as that side of the family is old fashioned and all.” Jax says as she wipes the tears in her eyes.

Muse sighs and looks at the time. Standing up, he gathers their coats and says, “Thanks ladies for an interesting time. I am glad to say you both were a lot better behaved than Damien and Rod was when they were here.”

Murmuring thanks and shrugging on jackets, Jax and Alicia gave muse a hug goodbye and walk out the door. Before muse can close it completely, Jax pops her head back in and says, “You asked me what attracted me to Rodrick before. Well his ass for one. It is all tight and yummy looking and the way he lights a fire inside me even as he annoys me to death. There you asked I answered. Happy now?”

Muse smiles as Jax leaves as he closes the door and murmurs “Those two are perfect for each other and it is time for them to see it. Now onto Grady’s story and the woman he is meant for.”

Slacking

I've been slacking with my blog lately, I know. I've been writing like crazy though, so that's a good thing right? Writing means possible new releases in my future.
Speaking of new releases I FINALLY received my release date for Heat Waves - Dec 4th!! Still no cover yet.
I'm sooo excited. I'll have two releases in December.

I'm happy to say I finished book three of the Lady Shea's Manor series over the weekend and began writing book one. I'm confident I'll get this one done by months end and I'll work on book two in December, along with Laney's Delights. I'm really excited about writing that story. I had to put it aside to work on other stuff. Oh crap and I forgot I have a Jan 1 deadline for a Valentine short. That's half done so I'll be working on that next month too.

I had a great idea for a St. Patrick's Day story, but think I've missed the deadlines for that. There's always next year. It's almost time to start thinking summer stories. Hmmmm, I love the warm weather.

Weekend NaNo totals:
Saturday - 1782
Sunday - 2252

Happy Friday the 13th!

I have a busy day at work and not much going on in my personal life. I did get my H1N1 shot this morning, so I'm now protected.
Other than that I'm writing, writing, writing.

Yesterday's total - 3,137
Today's total - 1,718
Overall total - 21,086

Hope everyone has a lucky day!

I'm on the Coming Soon Page

Yes! I finally made it to the coming soon page for Body Shots! I'm excited about this release. I enjoyed writing this book. The cover is nice too.

In other news, I may lose my writing space sooner than I thought. The guest bedroom is going to be turned into a nursery sometime after the holidays, but my son informed me needs to move out of his girlfriends house. He was afraid to tell me things weren't going well, because he didn't want to stress me out. I'd be more stressed knowing he was living with someone he didn't get along with or didn't want to be with just to keep me under stressed. I told him his bedroom (the guest room) is his to move in to and he can stay as long as it takes to decide what he wants to do next. So I suspect in the next day or two I'm going to need to find a new place to write.

Today I'm off from the day job and going to enjoy a day out with the DH.

In NaNo news - today's total is 2,002. Grand total - 15,997. I'm a little behind, but I'm certain I'll catch up. And even if I don't I'm thrilled at the progress I've make thus far. My current wip is just about done and turning out better than I hoped.

Happy Wednesday!

New Releases - Carnal Reunions!

Today a group of talented authors are celebrating releases. Check out the Carnal Reunion authors releases today: http://www.resplendencepublishing.com/53.html

Fran Lee, Taylor Tryst, Paris Brandon, Cindy Spencer Pape, Anny Cook, Regina Carlysle, and Tessie Bradford. You can't go wrong with any of these wonderful authors!

Just One of Those Days

Had a busy weekend, but a FUN one. Saturday was full with an all day mini-conference at my local chapter. Great speakers and lots of useful information. Saturday night the DH had a party for me. By the time everyone left I couldn't keep my eyes opened and I collapsed into bed.
Sunday, I took the day off from writing. While the DH had a house full of guys for the football game I went out and started shopping for the holidays. I got the grand daughter just about done and my god-daughter is finished. While that's only a small dent in my list, it felt good to accomplish something.

Today is all about doing nothing! Me on the couch with my work laptop. I managed to write 1500 words. I'm a few hundred short of my target for NaNo thus far. I'm sure I'll catch up later this week. The story I'm working on is flowing nicely and I should be able to wrap it up by Friday the latest. I'm really hoping to have most of the series completed by the end of Nano, if not all of it.

Here's to a new week! :)

TGIF!

My book Body Shots will be available on Dec 15th at: http://www.jasminejade.com/ It's part of the Wet theme series. I've seen some of the other covers, but not mine yet. They're all the same, but have a different caveman in it. Have you seen the cavemen? Not that any would be a disappointment, but I'm hoping, no I'm praying I get Angelo! Check him out. He's the hottie in the middle, with the long brown hair and the sexy body. Wait they all have sexy bodies. I'd like to help him out of those clothes and...damn I guess I'll just have to add the next thoughts to one of my wips!

I'm still going strong with Nano. I woke up late this morning and thought I wouldn't meet my minimum, but I was wrong. I got in such a groove I lost track of time and was late waking my daughter up for school. Ooooppps! LOL She was a good sport about it.

Today - 2,021

Now I'm gonna have to find a way to sneak a nap in during the day.

Writer's Bliss

I'm happily submerged in a story. This story is book three of a series called Lady Shea's Manor. I started this book awhile ago. I went strong for the first few thousand words and fizzled out. I decided to go back to it and I'm so glad I did. The words are flowing nicely. Kim and David's story is unfolding before my eyes. While I haven't written books one or two yet, I have a premise for them.
Nano always has a way of bringing out the writer in me. When I'm not writing I'm going over what I've written in my mind. Playing the "what if" game, so that when I return to my laptop the next day the story isn't stalled. I know at least the next scene and let the characters decide from there. As a pantser I can't think too far ahead or I get blocked. Strange? Maybe, but that's the way my brain functions. I don't question or try to force it to change.
I suspect I'll finish this book by the 13th and then I'll move on to book one - Paige and Jed's story. My editor asked that I write book one and synopsis' for the other two. I'll be able to do better than that, by the time Nano ends.
Nano also fills me with tons of ideas for other stories. So I've been filling my mini notebook with different ideas for future books. I hope to go strong until at least April. Then I'll have to figure out a new routine.
I hope everyone out there doing their version of Nano is having as much fun as I am!

Today's count so far - 2,204
Total = 8,351

Good News

I'm off bed rest! YAY! I'm so glad because I'll be able to attend my local chapters mini-conference this Saturday. It's an all day event with wonderful speakers including fellow EC author Ashlyn Chase.

I also received word from my EC editor that Ignited will be released on January 26th. Nice way to start off the new year. Body Shots is out on Dec 15th, so back to back releases are nice. Now if my other editor had a release date for Heat Waves that would be perfect. And if all goes well my short story will be in a Valentine's Day anthology from Noble Romance in Feb. But I digress and have gotten ahead of myself.

On this fourth day of Nano I've hit 6,147 words. Not too bad. A little short of the goal, but I'm determined to reach at least 50k by the end of the month. Until tomorrow - Happy Hump Day!

P.S. I have a cool contest for newsletter subscribers in light of my birthday month. You could win a free book and gift card. Why not join today. Subscribe on the right!

Check Out My Interview

Leave a comment and you could win a copy of Talk Dirty to Topaz.

http://liaslater.blogspot.com/2009/11/writer-with-sizzle-amber-skyze.html

Busy Monday

Back to work. Enjoyed three days off. Today I'm extremely tired as I try to get through the day. Not much to blog about. Son's birthday was a hit. Not many trick or treaters to report. So, I'm munching away on tons of chocolate that I don't need! Tomorrow is another day.

Nano thus far today - 1751

Happy Monday!

Let the Writing Begin!

Today kicks off NaNo. I had a healthy start - 1994 words. I average about 1k when I write, so this was a good day for me.

I finished the ending to a story that has been bugging me for a long time. I let it sit for a month and today decided to put The End to it. YAY for me! :)

In other news, my first official newsletter went out today. I had my first contest winner and a new contest announcement.

I also learned I won a copy of Cicada by Afton Locke over at: http://sixsexysirens.blogspot.com/2009/11/paranormal-power-week-winners.html how cool is that?

November is starting off pretty good.

Happy Halloween!

Mental Health Day

Yesterday I finally told my boss about the pregnancy. Nice thing about working from home is your co-workers can't notice that little baby bump and whisper behind your back. LOL Anyway, I also asked for today off. I've been working a few weeks straight, including weekends and I have a lot of running around to do. So much for that bed rest stuff. :) Shhh, don't tell my doctor.

I've ordered the food and pumpkin cheesecake for my son's dinner party. Now I just have to get him a gift. I've set aside time to work on polishing the wip to send out by Sunday. With any luck I'll have it done.

I had a four a.m. epiphany. I tend to write more in the winter. From usually November thru April or May. NaNo seems to be my jumping off point every year. So, I guess that means I'll have to start pumping out the books to carry me thru the summer. That said, I'm excited about starting NaNo. I don't sign up for the offical one, but two friends and fellow authors have been doing our own for the last three years. It works for us.

Anyone else doing their own version of NaNo?

Happy Birthday, N!

More Rain

We've had more rain than necessary since early April. I'm tired of it. I want to see the sunshine, even if it's cold outside. The poor golden is going nuts. He needs his exercise and can't get it when it's pouring outside. If he doesn't run for at least an hour a day he drives me crazy. Needless to say I'm at my wits end. LOL Can someone please send the sun my way?
Today I'm preparing for my son's birthday party tomorrow. My baby will be 22. My daughter is job hunting. She's doing the seasonal thing, so I'll be tasked with babysitting while she's out looking. What does that mean for my writing? I guess we'll see. I'm taking my friend Regina's idea and leaving my wip open all day. I'll try to add to it when time permits.
One more day til Friday and soon all the little trick or treaters will be parading to our door. The grand baby is going to be a monkey, can't wait to see her in her costume.
Until tomorrow - stay dry!

Progress is Sweet

I've been taking small steps to get back in the swing of things. I made a to-do list for each day this week. Nothing overly crazy to get me depressed if I didn't finish. As of today it's going good. I accomplished everything I've tasked myself and more. I even managed to open a wip and add four pages to it. I miss writing and everything that comes along with it, but there are times when I just couldn't do it.
This morning I realized that I have NOTHING new with any of my editors. It's a scary thought. I'm not waiting for any news of a new contract or a rejection. When did I let this fall by the wayside? I've had a manuscript in editors hands at all times for over a year and suddenly I don't. I need to fix this and fast. So, I have one story just about done that I'm determined to have submitted by the 1st. Let's hope I can accomplish this one!

Off to work on getting that manuscript polished.

Ignited - Coming Soon

Blurb:

Got Fantasies? Nikaya does. She longs to be loved by two men.
Nikaya is celebrating her birthday with a new Mustang. As she’s climbing the mountain in her new car a police officer comes out of nowhere. He pulls her over and treats her to a birthday spanking. With a sore butt and a burning need to orgasm she’s whisked away to a cabin.
Before the night is over Braden hopes to make all her fantasies reality and his best friend Hank is ready to help.
Three bodies, sex toys and a spanking machine is only the beginning for Nikaya.

Excerpt:

“Step out of the car, ma’am.”
“Huh?”
“I said, step out of the car.”
“What is this all about?” Surely this could be handled from the safety of her car.
“Now.”
His stern voice prompted her out of the car.
“Hands against the car. Legs spread.”
“You’re joking right?” She looked at his face and he didn’t appear to be kidding. He looked stone-cold serious.
Shaking his head he pointed to the hood of the car.
Nikaya did as she was instructed, cursing under her breath.
“Excuse me?” He placed a hand on the small of her back.
Heat coursed through her body from his touch.
“Nothing,” she spat. Then added. “Sir.”
He snickered behind her.
Condescending bastard.
His hand roamed south resting on her bare leg. As he pushed his body against hers she felt his hardness rub against her. He whispered in her ear. “Spread ’em.”
This definitely was not the norm, she thought swallowing back the urge to cry. His touch felt hot against her cool skin. Nikaya spread her legs.
“I see from your license it’s your birthday today.” His hand crawled up her leg and under her skirt. “Ummm, no panties.”
“I have no use for them. They’re cumbersome,” she admitted.
“Oh, so wet,” he whispered, grazing his finger along the folds of her pussy.
Nikaya bit her lip, she would not moan. Just because the touch of his finger along her slit set her soul on fire. She would not allow him to know how he affected her.
“Did I do something wrong officer?”
“You were racing up the mountain at a pretty high speed. Do you know the dangers of these winding roads?” He patted her down.
“I’m not armed.”
Ignoring her, he continued his search. Both hands caressed her legs before he lifted her skirt up over her ass.
“I don’t believe this is protocol, Sir.” Her legs grew wobbly under his touch.
“Are you questioning my authority?” He stood, gently guiding her body onto the hood of the car.
“No, it’s just—”
She was quieted by his hand swooping down smacking her across her bare ass.
“Ouch! What was that for?” She attempted to cover her sore cheek.
He quickly grabbed her hand and pinned it over her head.
“For getting obstinate with a police officer.”
“I find it hard to believe you’re a police officer.”
“You don’t believe I’m an officer? I guess I’ll have to convince you.”
His hand came crashing down on her buttocks again.
And again.
“Please stop. I’m begging you.”
“Begging me, huh? It’s your birthday and you know what that means, right?
“What?” she choked. The sting in her cheeks sent the rest of her body into a tizzy. The burn had her pussy pooling with juices.
“You need to get your birthday spankings. One for each year. I see here you’re thirty this year. I’m going to slap that sweet ass thirty times and each time my hand cracks those luscious cheeks I want you to count. Do you understand?”
She understood but she didn’t agree with him. There was no way she was going to stand there and accept his spanking.
“I’m waiting for an answer, Ms Murphy.”
“And if I don’t?”
He chuckled.
“Let’s just say you won’t like the consequences.”
She was tempted to scream for help but knew no one would hear. Except maybe one of the owls hooting in the distance or a nocturnal animal but they wouldn’t save her. There wasn’t a house for miles and the likelihood of another car driving up the mountain at this time of the night was slim. She was at the mercy of this man. She had to do what he said or else.
“Yes, I understand.”
“Good.” He smacked her ass.
Silence.
“I’m waiting.”
“One,” she cried.
He smacked her a few more times.
“Two, three, four…”
“You’ve got the hang of this.” His smugness irritated her. Her ass needed cool water to extinguish the burning radiating it.
He continued slapping her cheeks and she continued counting until they reached thirty.
“You’ve been a very obedient girl. Maybe I’ll let you go without a ticket.”
“I still don’t believe you’re a cop. Where’s your cruiser and let me see your badge,” she challenged. He pressed her harder against the car hood and draped his body over hers.
“You want to see my badge? I’ll show you may badge.”

Heat Waves - Coming Soon

Coming soon from Aspen Mountain Press - http://www.aspenmountainpress.com/coming-soon/coming-soon/heat-waves/prod_275.html

Heat Waves

Blurb:

Ever wonder about the face behind the voice of a radio DJ?

Nina Walters has. She can’t get enough of disc jockey Ty’s sexy baritone. He has her masturbating to his voice daily. When he challenges his listeners to a contest Nina can't resist the challenge, the opportunity and will use every advantage she has or can find.

Ty is offering a dream date, with him, to one lucky winner. He’s positive no one will guess the answer correctly. So, when Nina does he’s floored. Being a man of his word, he goes through with the date. Sparks fly, but secrets linger. Will their heat for one another be enough to ride the waves of deception?



Excerpt:

“So are you tired?” she asked, lifting his shirt and running her fingers up his stomach.
Was he tired? How could he possibly be tired with such a sexy woman stirring his manhood awake?
“Depends. What did you have in mind?” he teased.
“A little of this.” She reached up and kissed his neck, while her hand worked the button of his jeans. “And a little of this.” She nibbled on his earlobe, rendering him useless.
He grabbed her and tossed her down on the seat. “I’m not tired in the least,” he said, tugging at her shirt. “I want to devour you.”
She squirmed under his touch. “I’m feeling a little sleepy.” She faked a yawn.
Ty loved a challenge. “You can go to sleep, but first let me show you what you’ll be missing.”
He brought his lips down on her breast. He felt the bud hardening under the heat of his breath. His fingers roamed her soft skin, searching for the other breast. When he reached his destination he tweaked the nipple between his fingers. She closed her eyes.
“Very sleepy.”
She was going to play that way, was she? He’d show her tired. Lifting her shirt over her head, she didn’t resist him, but she didn’t assist him either. Laying like dead weight she continued with her pretend sleep. But Ty knew it was only a matter of time before she stopped faking and joined in on the fun.
With her shirt off and her bra opened, he worked on shrugging her out of her jeans. It wasn’t easy, but he managed. Now she lay fully exposed – an open invitation to do whatever he pleased to her.
He placed gentle kisses on her flat stomach. Tiny hairs stood on edge, her skin prickled under his touch. She was becoming aroused. He could smell it in the air. He admired her perfectly trimmed pussy as he made his way to prove his point. As he drew closer to her pussy her arousal became more pronounced.
Sleeping, my ass. Let’s see you sleep through this.

Slowly Recovering

Wednesday I spent the morning in the ER. What I thought were contractions was gastric reflux. It's the most pain I've felt since labor. The baby is still just fine. Me, I'm getting there slowly. They changed my meds once again to the one medicine that has ALWAYS worked. Go figure. It annoys me because I know my body. I know what works and what doesn't. But doctors think they know better than me. Now I'm finally feeling a little better.
Yesterday my coffee pot bit the dust. I don't drink much. I make enough for one cup and normally don't finish it, but having none is NOT an option. The DH had to go into the office yesterday so he couldn't run out for coffee for me. The older kids traveled to NY, so they weren't an option either. Geez, being on bed rest wasn't working for me.
Today the DH went to Dunkin Donuts and got me coffee. God, I love him! lol
My youngest has been home all week with seasonal flu. I'm walking around with Lysol wipes and spray. Can't afford to add the flu to my list of issues.
Some good news, that I needed. My editor sent me edits for Ignited. It's been about six weeks since I've worked with any of my editors, so this was a pleasant surprise. Now if I can just finish a story so I can submit!

Happy Friday Everyone. Hope you have a wonderful weekend.

Desiree Holt's New Release

Dancing With Danger
by Desiree Holt

Rachel Windsor knew nothing about Gabriel Peralta except that he was walking sex appeal. He blew into her life without notice, here today then always gone on a puff of wind. But each time he appears, he does things to her body that even her fantasies haven’t conjured up, driving her to orgasms that shake her like a raging storm. His mouth knows every inch of her body. The imprint of his intimate kisses linger long after he disappears.

Now he’s back again, his life unexpectedly on the line. But even in the danger zone his sexual demands are more scorching than ever and this time, Rachel is determined not to lose him—or the erotic lifestyle that binds them.

Buy it here: http://www.jasminejade.com/ps-7559-50-dancing-with-danger.aspx

Start of a new week

Had a bit of a scare this morning, just before I left for my monthly check-up. Told the DH he might want to come to the visit, just in case. Doctor said things look fine. They did a quick ultrasound and I just have to slow down. If I slow down anymore I might as well be on bed rest. So the scare is behind us.

Today I announced the first monthly contest on my newsletter loop. The contest is for member's only so if you want to join in on the fun subscribe to your right.

Still don't have a release date for Heat Waves. I thought it was coming this month, but something tells me, its not.

Received my ten Chicken Soup for the Soul(All in the Family) books in the mail today. That was a pleasant surprise. I had forgotten it was releasing tomorrow. Now if only the check would arrive too! THAT would be a bigger surprise. :)

Yesterday I drove in sleet, rain, snow, you name it, while in MA. Today it's sunny and 60 degrees. I can't win. I'll take this weather any day. I'm not looking forward to the snow.

Getting Out of the House

Taking a bit from friend and fellow author Ashley Ladd - http://ashleyladd.blogspot.com, writer's need to get out of the house every once in a while. Even non-writers. I admit to being stuck in a rut lately. It had me so depressed I didn't leave the house much, unless I had to - softball, doctor's appointments, etc. I work out of the house, so I don't even leave for the day job.
With no kids and no softball this weekend, the DH said "Let's go browse or something." Now mind you I'm not a shopper, but he is. He can look at stuff for the house for hours. I relented and went. Boy am I glad I got out.
While the DH was in a guy store I sat at a table and people watched. I haven't done this in a very long time. My feet were tired, we'd been in the mall for almost three hours at this point. Anyway, so there I sat watching. Then I seen this male couple. I watched how they interacted with one another. Their mannerisms, the way one talked as opposed to the other. And for the record they were both extremely cute. The only thing that bothered me was they dressed almost identical. Not sure why it bothered me, but it did.
Bottom line is if I hadn't gotten out last night, I wouldn't have seen this couple. I'm writing my second M/M story now and this "research" if you will, is sure to help my story move forward.
So, like Ashley said, it's important to take a break and get a change of scenery. I know it did me good.

Newsletter and Contest

As some of you may know, I write erotic romance novels for Aspen Mountain Press, Ellora’s Cave Publishing and Noble Romance.

If you enjoy contemporary and ménage a trios romance novels, you can find out more about Amber’s books in my newsletter every month.

As a member, you'll have access to the latest news, including excerpts from upcoming books and exclusive member’s only contests. Amber’s Ramblings will be available on the 1st of each month.

Join today a new contest is going to be announced Monday!

Subscribe: authoramberskyze-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS SITE IS AN ADULT ONLY GROUP.YOU MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE TO JOIN.

I Wrote!!!

LOL...I know so what, right? For me this is a big deal. I've been blocked, depressed, call it what you want. Bottom line is I haven't been writing. This morning I woke and wrote five pages. I feel good! :) I was feeling so good I got a head start on my local chapter's newsletter. I'm sure I'll crash shortly, but that doesn't matter.
The weekend is looking crappy. Rain, possible snow showers and bitter cold temps. But I have no children and no work, so the DH and I WILL be enjoying this weekend. I'm determined to not be sick.

Back to writing! Happy Friday everyone.

Self-Edits

Today I picked up my wip, Research Required. Haven't touched it in a few weeks. I still need to write the ending, but I know how I'm going to wrap it up. Instead I need to go back and read it from the beginning. I have a tendency to put insert name later, what color eyes did he have in the beginning, and things like that when I'm in the writing groove. Those are small details in the grand scheme of things to me.
I'm re-reading to get a feel for the story. I think I can't move forward with the Valentine's story I'm writing for Noble Romance because this story is unfinished. I need to put it to bed and submit it. Then I can move back to Dirty Cupid(tentative title).
It didn't help that I've been sick for almost two weeks now. Turns out it wasn't the baby after all. I have acid reflux and they had to change my meds with the pregnancy. Well I'm not getting enough. So my Crohn's doctor upped my meds today. She said it may take up to a week to feel better. If that isn't the issue, she said it could be my gall bladder, but again, can't do anything for that for another 5+ months. Let me tell you it's not fun when you can't eat anything. Today I'm eating toast and applesauce. Yum - NOT. lol
Back to self-edits. Another favorite thing of mine.